8 Dog-Friendly Hotels Around Ireland

If you walk through the streets of Ireland, even busy cities like Galway, don’t be surprised to see a Jack Russell or Border Collie strut past you on a sunny afternoon. You might wonder, “Where’s his owner?” 

Here on the Emerald Isle, folks have a special affinity for their faithful friends, so it may not come as a huge surprise to hear there are plenty of pet-friendly accommodations. 

Of course, you can filter your next Airbnb search and come up with plenty of hits. But, what if you wanted a nice, luxurious hotel stay? If that’s the case, then we have you covered with a few of our favorites. 

Ashford Castle | Co. Mayo

That’s right – one of the most luxurious 5-star hotels in Ireland allows dogs, with certain stipulations. That is, they’re allowed to stay with you at The Lodge, a lovely 4-star hotel on the immaculate castle grounds. This is no hardship at all, as you still have access to the main castle and plenty of activities on the estate, such as springtime boat rides on the lake. 

Throughout your stay, you can choose from a pet-friendly menu while Fido enjoys a fluffy bed, food, and water bowls. There’s even a turndown treat at sunset! 

As for the fine print, it’s an additional €25 per night per pet and a €500 deposit, which you’ll get back upon checkout. And, on that note, upon check-in or checkout, don’t be surprised if you’re greeted with a sniff and a tail wag from one of the castle’s resident Wolfhounds. For more on this incredible place to stay, here’s a deep dive into the enchanted lands of Ashford Castle. 

The Twelve | Co. Galway

About an hour away and a county over, you’ll find The Twelve. Galway City is one of the best cities in the entire country and, if you’re traveling with a pet, this is where you’ll want to stay. It’s about 20 minutes from the City Centre, but, boy, will it quickly become your home away from home. 

Pets are greeted with their very own welcome bag, filled with treats and a soft toy. Of course, they’ll also have their own bed in your room. Dogs are allowed throughout the property, including The Pins Gastro Bar – somewhere we expect you’ll spend an afternoon or two. Then, when you walk into town, you’ll quickly find that plenty of pubs are pet-friendly. To round out your time downtown, here’s a first-time travel guide to Galway City. 

Dunmore House Hotel | Co. Cork

When visiting Ireland, we often recommend the West Coast for the healing winds that rise off the Atlantic. But, Cork has plenty of healing on offer, as well – especially colorful West Cork. When you come down to this area, there’s so much to see, including those quintessential towns like Clonakilty and Skibbereen, as well as a few coastal destinations like Bantry Bay. 

But, speaking of Clonakilty, you’ll find a small, family-run coastal retreat called Dunmore House Hotel. Having access to the beautiful town is one thing, but the hotel grounds are another, especially when you take in those views over the water. 

Pups can run free throughout their 30-acre farm with all their new four-legged friends. In fact, they’re allowed throughout the property, except for the Michelin-recommended restaurant, Adrift. Rooms here have underfloor heating to keep their paws warm and a step-out balcony so they can properly sniff the air. 

Muckross Park Hotel & Spa | Co. Kerry

Folks from Galway or Cork will tell us to put our dukes up when we say Kerry is, quite possibly, the most beautiful county in all the land. From scenic drives to sweeping shorelines, it’s pretty incomparable. You have the Ring of Kerry, all of Killarney, Dingle, Kenmare, Slea Head Drive, and so much more. 

Still, when you come to Kerry with your pup, be sure to stay at Muckross Park Hotel & Spa. The only stipulation here is that they can only accommodate miniature or toy breeds in their pet-friendly apartments. We’re sad to say Irish wolfhounds need not apply. 

While dogs aren’t permitted in the food and beverage areas, there is a dog-sitting service if you want to leave them there and then go out and explore one day. 

That said, with all of Kerry’s mountains, beaches, and parks, you’re more than likely to want to take your sidekick with you as you explore this glorious county. In which case, the hotel’s pet concierge will be more than happy to give you the scoop on where to go.